Peggy Hitchcock, 1991

Observing

NOTES FROM THE NURSE
Did you know.?

+ The "dirtiest" place in your home is probably the kitchen sink, although the bathroom comes in second.

+ Parasites come with pets, in the food/water supply and, surprisingly, through your feet!

+ Parasitic infections may be responsible for many chronic illnesses, including, but not limited to, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS.)

Parasites are unwelcome guests in your body, and offer nothing in exchange for living there. They range from one-celled protozoa to worms, which, in the early stages, are microscopic. Parasites often make their own protective coating, which defies detection. Whole families may be infected, as well as day-care and, especially, pre-school environments. Children are more at risk because they are still learning hygiene practices.

Symptoms include: loose, sometimes "frothy" stool; nausea; gas; cramping; chronic fatigue; anal itching, especially at night; chronic nose-picking, and very increased or very decreased appetite. Some people have no symptoms at all .

As with most things, prevention is the key. Some basic tips to protect yourself include:

• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly and follow with a Clorox bath: one teaspoon of Clorox bleach to one gallon of water and soak for 15 minutes. Drain, then soak with clear water for 10 minutes. Dry and store as usual.
• Cook all meat, fish, poultry and eggs thoroughly.
• Teach children to choose food using their eyes, not their fingers and use utensils to serve food.
• Wash the kitchen sink, faucets, cutting surfaces and utensils daily, and disinfect with a mild bleach solution; one part bleach to 10 parts water.
• Observe (and teach your kids) good hygiene habits. Wash your hands often and well with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Especially ensure washing: before food preparation; after using the bathroom; caring for pets; taking out the garbage; gardening, changing diapers, etc.
• Keep fingernails clean and trim.
• Always wear shoes outside and shower shoes in public swim areas.
• Use toilet seat protectors in public restrooms.
• Rinse the bathtub well after showering or bathing, and disinfect with the mild bleach solution.
• Clean and disinfect the toilet area daily; disinfectant wipes are good for quick clean-ups.
• Keep animals out of the bed!
• Wash all bedding and underwear in hot water.
• Encourage good elimination habits - at least one large, soft bowel movement per day! Drink lots of water (a quart for every 50 lbs. of weight), eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and grains, and avoid sugary, processed foods. Parasites, as well as mold and yeast, thrive on sugar. Yikes!
• Consider adding garlic to your food - it is a natural anti-parasitic. Pineapple and papaya also contain enzymes that increase digestive juices, which kill parasites.
  If you suspect a parasitic infection, your health care provider may recommend several tests, however, these tests are often (falsely) negative. Your local health food and dietary supplement store may have helpful herbal remedies. Get advice! Herbal remedies are safe if taken as directed, but some are not meant for pregnant or nursing mothers, or children under a certain age.
  Stay healthy!